News and insider tips about travel in the United States and to International destinations. Visits to exotic locations and unexpected adventures. Restaurant reviews. Secrets known only to locals. My travel articles also appear in Luxury Travel Magazine, New York Daily News & Westways Magazine

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Shizuoka Prefecture is famously the home of Mt. Fuji, Japan’s most revered landmark. West from Tokyo, mid-way to Kyoto, the prefecture is a popular destination because of the natural beauty of its mountains, lakes, rivers and Pacific Ocean coastline. The area is as well-known for the many battles that took place during the Sengoku Period (1467-1615), a time of instability when Japan’s daimyōs (local lords) fought against one another. Ultimately, after great bloodshed and turmoil, a unified Japan was created, leading to a time of peace that lasted more than two-hundred and fifty years. For anyone who loves history, good food and nature, an adventure in Shizuoka Prefecture hits all the sweet spots. Kanzanji Onsen Hotel Kokonoe - Hot Water, Cold Rain, Great Food After spending a full day enjoying the attractions of Shizuoka Prefecture, we arrived after dark at Kanzanji Onsen Hotel Kokonoe.

Our guide, Masayo Atobe, recommended I visit the onsen before dinner, which was a Japanese custom. S…